The SEND reforms parents, students and teachers want to see most
BBC World
February 21, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The government's proposed SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) reforms aim to overhaul how children receive support in England. Leaked plans suggest a focus on reviewing EHCPs (Education, Health, and Care Plans) at critical stages—after primary school and GCSEs—which has raised concerns among families, educators, and advocates. Current system challenges include lengthy processes, lack of flexibility, and insufficient legal protections, leaving many children without adequate support. Parents like Ailith worry that increased assessments could strain resources and erode safeguards for children with lifelong conditions.
Kadeem's experience highlights the emotional toll of inadequate support. Diagnosed with ODD at nine, he faced school exclusions, home tutoring, and placement in a pupil referral unit due to gaps in communication within the SEND system. He emphasizes the need for better coordination between services to prioritize children’s needs over punitive measures. Smaller class sizes and regular breaks could help prevent behavioral issues that lead to suspensions.
Families like Aimee's often face tribunal disputes with local authorities, a costly and emotionally draining process. Aimee won her case, securing an appropriate school placement for her son, but the experience left her exhausted. Her story underscores the systemic failures in the current system and the urgent need for reforms that streamline support and reduce barriers to education.
The National Audit Office has labeled the SEND system "broken," with councils spending £14.8 billion annually—a tenfold increase over a decade. Advocates call for more flexible, inclusive solutions that recognize children’s long-term needs, rather than repeatedly reassessing their requirements. These reforms matter globally as they reflect broader efforts to create equitable educational systems that support all learners. By addressing systemic flaws and prioritizing child-centered care, the government can ensure better outcomes for students with SEND and reduce the emotional and financial burden on families.
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/21/2026